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What should I do about swollen lymph nodes in the neck due to AIDS?

Dec 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, the management of neck lymph node enlargement in AIDS patients mainly includes supportive care, antiviral therapy, anti-infective treatment, traditional Chinese medicine, and immunomodulatory therapy. In addition, patients must strictly follow medical advice regarding medication and should not adjust dosages or discontinue treatment on their own. Regular follow-up tests for viral load, CD4 cell count, and lymph node status are necessary, along with proper personal protection to prevent transmission to others.

Generally, the management of swollen neck lymph nodes in AIDS patients mainly includes general treatment, antiviral therapy, anti-infective treatment, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and immunomodulatory therapy. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. General Treatment

Maintain cleanliness of the neck area and avoid pressing or scratching the enlarged lymph nodes to prevent skin damage and secondary infections. Ensure adequate rest daily and avoid excessive fatigue. Increase dietary intake of protein-rich foods such as lean meat and eggs, along with fresh vegetables and fruits for vitamin supplementation, to support bodily recovery.

2. Antiviral Therapy

Ongoing viral replication is the primary cause of lymph node enlargement, so standardized antiviral treatment is required to suppress the virus. Medications such as zidovudine tablets, lamivudine tablets, and efavirenz tablets should be taken under medical guidance. Combination therapy helps restore immune function and alleviates lymphadenopathy at its root.

3. Anti-infective Therapy

Due to low immunity, bacterial co-infections may occur and worsen symptoms; therefore, targeted medication should be administered after identifying the pathogen. For bacterial infections, drugs such as cefixime dispersible tablets, amoxicillin capsules, and levofloxacin tablets can be used under medical supervision. In cases of fungal infection, fluconazole tablets may be prescribed.

4. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

According to TCM, this condition falls within the category of "luoli" (scrofula) and is treated primarily by clearing heat, detoxifying, resolving phlegm, and dispersing nodules. Under physician guidance, Chinese herbal medicines such as Xiaoluo Pills, Prunella vulgaris ointment, and Zhenmi Tablets may be used. Acupuncture at points such as Hegu (LI4) and Quchi (LI11) can also be combined to help relieve symptoms.

5. Immunomodulatory Therapy

This approach enhances antiviral capacity by regulating immune function, often using immunomodulators as adjunctive treatment. Drugs such as thymopeptide enteric-coated tablets, transfer factor oral solution, and spleen aminopeptide oral lyophilized powder may be used under medical advice to improve immune cell activity and assist in disease control.

In addition, patients must strictly follow medical instructions regarding medication and should not adjust dosages or discontinue treatment on their own. Regular follow-up tests including viral load, CD4 cell count, and lymph node assessments are essential. Personal protective measures should be maintained to prevent transmission to others. If rapid enlargement of lymph nodes or increased pain occurs, prompt medical consultation is necessary to adjust the treatment plan.

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